Tested and Perfected by Food and Wine

Slow Cooker Barley Risotto

Contributed by
  • ACTIVE: 10 MIN
  • TOTAL TIME: 4 HRS 10 MIN
  • SERVINGS: 4 to 6
  • •MAKE-AHEAD

blog Tips from the F&W Test Kitchen

  1. 5 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  2. 1 1/2 cups pearled barley (10 1/2 ounces), rinsed
  3. 1 medium leek, white and light green parts only, thinly sliced
  4. 1 thyme sprig
  5. Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
  6. 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, plus more for serving
  7. 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken broth with the barley, leek, thyme, 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Cook on low until the barley is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, about 4 hours. Discard the thyme sprig. Stir in the Parmigiano-Reggiano and butter and season with salt and pepper. Spoon the barley risotto into bowls and serve, passing additional cheese at the table.